PSI Barbering Practice Exam

___________ refers to either the loss of oxygen or the addition of hydrogen.

1. Reduction

2. Oxidation

3. Evaporation

4. Distillation

The correct answer is: Reduction

The concept being described pertains to the process of reduction, which is defined as a chemical reaction that involves the loss of oxygen or the addition of hydrogen. In the context of chemistry, reduction typically refers to a reduction in the oxidation state of a molecule, ion, or atom. As one substance undergoes reduction, another substance undergoes oxidation, highlighting the interdependence of these two processes. In terms of the other options, oxidation specifically addresses the opposite process, which involves the addition of oxygen or the loss of hydrogen, thus contrasting with reduction. Evaporation and distillation relate to physical changes in states of matter or the separation of mixtures rather than chemical changes concerning oxygen and hydrogen. Understanding these terms in the context of redox reactions helps clarify their significance in biochemical processes and various applications in barbering, such as the formulation of certain hair products.